The rankings, formed in partnership with global marketing communications company Y&R's brand strategy firm, BAV Group, and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, aim to gauge global perceptions of the world's largest economies.

See which countries are the best, and which received the number one spot:

25PHOTOS

25 best countries in the world, according to U.S. News - 2018

See Gallery

25 best countries in the world, according to U.S. News - 2018

No. 25: India

India, the world's largest democracy, ranks No. 25 overall. It took top spots in Movers, a measure of economic potential, and in Heritage.

Italy ranks No. 15 overall, one spot better than its rank in 2017. Known for its many historical cities, world-renown cuisine and geographic beauty, the country takes top spots in Heritage and Cultural Influence.

New Zealand is the No. 13 Best Country overall, faring one spot better than last year. The country's education expenditures as a percent of gross domestic product are among the highest in the world, and it ranks No. 13 in the Best Countries for Education. It is also considered the No. 1 country to retire comfortably.

No. 12: Norway

Norway, which has twice rejected European Union membership, fell two spots to rank No. 12 overall. The country takes the No. 1 spot for citizenship and transparency.

Germany is ranked No. 3 overall, performing best in Entrepreneurship and Power. The country's leader, Chancellor Angela Merkel, has one of the highest global approval ratings among prominent global leaders.